According to police, Zito appeared intoxicated and was complaining of pain to her head, neck and arm. She claimed the injuries were sustained as a result of being physically attacked by Schoen.

Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office homicide investigators were dispatched to the home to assist Harahan police in the investigation.

The Sheriff’s Office says Zito’s son told them Zito had been dating Milton Schoen on and off for the past three years. During their relationship, he reported witnessing Schoen physically abuse his mother several times in the past. He claimed some of the incidents were reported to police, but most were not.

The 16-year-old said he arrived home approximately 15 minutes prior to the shooting. He said he heard a gunshot and seconds thereafter he heard his mother call out, “Son, get in here.” He immediately ran to the room where he observed Schoen standing at the foot of the bed and his mother was seated on the bed pointing a black handgun at him. He said Schoen looked angry and his mother appeared frightened. The 16-year-old said he told Schoen to get out of his mother’s room. At that point Schoen responded by shoving Daniel in the chest with both hands causing him to fall back and hit the wall. Zito fired one shot at which time Schoen fell to the ground.

The incident is being classified as a homicide at this time, however, the Jefferson Parish District Attorney’ Office will be consulted.